My Philosophy

It is my desire as an educator to encourage and facilitate the learning process to the best of my abilities. My goal is to help students achieve their fullest potential in the areas where they seek higher knowledge. I will provide a safe atmosphere for learning and invite students to actively participate in the process by appealing to them to share ideas without concern for negative or demeaning feedback. I feel that each person is unique in their own way. I believe that for learners to mature in their education they require a teacher who cares and an environment which positively contributes to stimulating growth, intellectual maturity, and social development. I believe there are four essentials which support a positive learning atmosphere;

(1) the teacher actively facilitates the learning process(2) students must understand why learning is important(3) students need to feel welcome to direct themselves(4) students should be allowed to express their opinions freely in class and feel safe in doing so

I feel that rather than acting as the principle source of information for students as they pursue knowledge, it is the instructor’s role to guide them along their way. Learners should be compelled to gain their own understandings; it is important and beneficial for students to be provided opportunities to discover insights for themselves.

When applicable, new found skills should be practiced in controlled situational training. Thus, students should be provided access to practical hands-on exercises, which incorporate suitable materials, time, and locations. I believe learning by doing will reinforce lessons taught and create unique opportunities for discovery and gained knowledge.

It is important that students be provided with the opportunity to learn about the things they are interested in. Topics which have individual meaning and relevancy to each person’s goals, interests, and personal development foster motivation to learn which can create a passion to seek further knowledge.

When a class syllabus is constructed, consistent rules and standards of operation outlining all expectations from the beginning is very important. When students take ownership in their learning, this can generate self-motivation to work hard and lead to critical skill development which is essential for accomplishing individual goals. As an educator it is in my best interest to clearly define learning objectives, model the tasks which are requested to be performed, and provide opportunity by allowing a reasonable amount of time for students to practice or develop important skills.

I believe it is central to integrate learner self-discovery into lesson planning. Teachers should plan, construct, and implement instruction so all students can follow along and understand concepts. Within the teaching plan a path should be identified to help learners who may not fully understand what is being taught if the instruction is not initially clear, these could include references, coaching, and peer reviews.

I feel it is important to assist students who wish to develop professionally and influence them to have respect for themselves, others, and their environment. Class communication whether in person or within online communities may encourage positive dialogue among learners who have a common goal. Students can more easily find respect for everyone involved in the learning process when they feel comfortable and completely understand what is expected of them.

As an instructor, I hope to instill within students a strong craving for the desire to learn new things or reinforce current knowledge. I believe teaching facilitates learning not only in students, but also for the educator. I feel it is important for students to experience authentic education and to work with an educator who is conscious and sensitive to individual needs.